What work does an Electrician do?

Electricians install, commission, test and maintain various electrical and wiring systems.  They connect power to services in domestic, commercial and industrial settings.  The work can also involve more complex systems involving instrumentation, process control and maintenance in industrial plants, hospitals and power stations. 

Electricians employed by electrical contractors are usually engaged in the installation of lighting, heating equipment and appliances, while those in industrial employment are generally engaged in the maintenance and repair of factory plant, machinery and generating equipment.

What skills and qualities are needed to work as an Electrician?

To work as an electrician you must be good with your hands, have a decent level of fitness and an awareness of health and safety.  Ladders and steps are often required so a good head for heights can be needed at times.  Electricians must also have an aptitude for fault finding problem solving and be adept at using a variety of specialist tools and machinery.  They must also have the ability to read detailed plans and drawings and interpret electrical diagrams.  Finally, being equally comfortable working both as an individual and as part of a team is also important.

Where will I be based for my Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeships are a combination of on-the-job training and off-the-job training with the schedule agreed between the employer, the apprentice and your local ETB.  The Electrical apprenticeship is four years in duration and when qualified the apprentice will gain a Level 6 Advanced Certificate Craft-Electrical.  Some of the key elements that you will concentrate on over the four years are-

• Introduction to Health and Safety
• Installation Techniques
• Panel wiring
• Power distribution
• Automation control
• Electronics
• Related theory

Training is provided by the following institutions:

• TU Dublin - City Campus
• IT Sligo
• Waterford Institute of Technology
• Dundalk Institute of Technology
• TU Dublin - Blanchardstown
• IT Carlow
• City of Dublin Education and Training Board
• Kerry Education and Training Board
• Monaghan Institute

What is the Pay/Job market like?

As an apprentice, you earn while you learn and the rate of pay is agreed between you and your employer. 

The weekly gross wage norms are below-

• Phase 2 - €274.95
• Phase 4 - €412.23
• Phase 6 - €595.53
• 4th Year - €733.20

Electrical apprentices are required to pay €558 for Phase 2 and €3,000 for phase 4 as a student contribution for this apprenticeship.  Qualified Electrician salaries can range between €41k - €46k per year and the trade has been recognised as a Job in Demand according to the latest National Skills Bulletin.

How do I secure an Apprenticeship contract?

To be eligible to apply for this apprenticeship you must be employed by an approved employer and be at least 16 years of age.  Education requirements are five Grade D or Achieved grades in the Junior Certificate, an approved Pre-Apprenticeship course or at least three years work experience in a related industrial activity.  Experience with the following subjects would be an advantage-

• Mathematics
• Technology
• Technical Drawing/Graphics
• Physics
• Construction Studies

To become an electrical apprentice you must also pass the Ishihara Colour Vision Test (24 Plate Edition)

Iarnród Éireann and the Electrical Supply Board (ESB) recruit for apprentices annualy.  There is also a significant demand for electricians across the Pharmaceutical and Technology sectors.  Your local ETB may also have information on employers looking for electrical apprentices.

Explore our Live apprenticeship area to find out what other employers are actively looking for apprentices.

Where can I get more information?

The Association of Electrical Contractors in Ireland (AECI) have more information on their website.  Visit our ESB page for other news in relation to the industry.

A more detailed account of what the apprenticeship entails can also be found on the Electrical page in our Apprenticeships section.

You may also like to explore our Career Sector area, watch some related videos or search our CourseFinder using the Apprenticeship filter.    

Further details about apprenticeships can also be found on the official apprenticeship website www.apprenticeship.ie or from your local ETB.

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